Getting picky eaters to try new food is no easy task. You might hear words like “Eww” or “Yuck!” on a daily basis from fussy or finicky eater.

But it is important not to get discouraged when introducing kids to new food.

Test out some tips and advice from southeast Michigan experts and a few other sources that sure to be valuable to both you and your child.

1. Let them try it on their own

Nobody likes to be “made” to do anything. Forcing your picky eater to try new food is not only unproductive, but it could also hurt his or her perception of food in general.

Amie, a mom from Ypsilanti, says when her son was 14 months old, she let him decide what foods he wanted to try. That’s how he wound up trying new vegetables on his own.

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While not every parent might have the same matched success, parents are encouraged to control the options available to the child, but ultimately leaving it up to the child to pick what he or she wants to sample.

2. Have kids pick off your plate

Children are also more prone to try new foods if they see their parents eating it first – and a good way to get your child to try new food is letting them graze off your plate. This is a great method of sharing and experimenting with your child.

3. Don’t expect your child to eat what you don’t

Being a good role model extends to eating habits, as well. It’s extremely important not to be hypocritical when getting your child to try new foods. If you don’t eat it, they won’t it.

Amie says, “The most important thing is that kids will eat what is prepared. You can’t eat McDonalds while you make your child eat sliced apples … it just won’t work.”

4. Amp up the fun factor

Children are often turned off by the looks of new food. This obstacle can be overcome by simply adding new colors, or shapes to the food, as WebMD notes.

It’s amazing what you can do with a cookie cutter! Shapes like dinosaurs and stars will be more appealing to your child – and boost the odds of getting picky eaters to try new food.

5. Veggies incognito

“Generally, when you can fit in veggies, it’s a good idea. This can be done with a food processor to anything and the veggies won’t be discovered. You can end up making a hamburger that’s half hamburger.”